HC Deb 15 February 1938 vol 331 cc1689-90
16. Mr. Turton

asked the President of the Board of Trade why the recommendations made by the Import Duties Advisory Committee relating to ham and bacon preserved in air-tight containers, and dated 5th March, 1936, were not published till last month; and what action the Government propose to take upon the recommendations?

Mr. Stanley

A decision on the recommendation of the Import Duties Advisory Committee relating to ham and bacon preserved in air-tight containers was deferred pending discussions with representatives of the principal foreign supplying countries. As was announced in a Press notice issued by the Board of Trade on 3rd January, arrangements have now been made for reducing the exports to this country to a level which should enable United Kingdom manufacturers to secure a satisfactory share of the home market. In these circumstances, it has been decided not to give effect for the present to the recommendation of the Committee, provided that the voluntary arrangements for the limitation of exports to the United Kingdom operate satisfactorily. The recommendation was published as soon as practicable after this decision was reached.

Sir Percy Harris

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that these new proposals to limit supplies will not raise prices to the consumers, and does he not realise that this commodity is an essential food diet for the mass of the people?